Burdock Root Diuretic Digestive Aid. Latin Name: Arctium lappa syn., Plant Family: Asteraceae. Greater Burdock is a biennial plant that reaches a height of up to 2 metres, and is native to Europe and Asia; it can also be found growing in the United States. It has large, alternating, heart shaped leaves that attach to the stem. All parts of this herb are used in one way or another, the dried root is one of the ingredients in the classic drink Dandelion & Burdock. The fresh root is crisp and has a sweet mild flavour and has been eaten as a vegetable since the middle ages. The stems can be boiled and served as a vegetable, they are also pickled and served as a condiment. Burdock root is a vegetable that’s native to northern Asia and Europe, though it now grows in the United States, too. The deep roots of the burdock plant are very long and either brown or nearly black on the outside.Burdock root has been used for centuries in holistic medicine to treat a variety of different conditions. Traditionally, it was most commonly used as a diuretic and a digestive aid. Now, researchers have discovered numerous potential uses and health benefits for burdock root. These benefits may be extensive enough to warrant using burdock root as a complementary treatment for certain conditions.
It’s a powerhouse of antioxidants and removes toxins from the blood, one of the most common traditional uses for burdock root. Burdock root, as it turns out, may not only purify the blood:It may also inhibit certain types of cancer. significantly interfering with cancer cell growth. Another traditional use of burdock root is as an aphrodisiac. Burdock root has also long been used to treat skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of the root can help resolve skin issues when it’s applied topically to the skin. It can also help treat topical burns. Reducing wrinkles: Burdock root contains antioxidants quercetin, luteolin, and phenolic acids, which fight free radicals and combat the signs of aging. One study found that cream containing burdock root extract helped reduce the appearance of skin wrinkles. Improving hair: Phytosterols in burdock root are believed to boost scalp and hair health, relieve dandruff, and improve hair follicles to prevent hair loss and improve thickness. Eliminating excess water weight: Burdock root is used in traditional Chinese medicine as a diuretic to promote urination and sweating. There is limited scientific evidence to support this claim, however.
Burdock root tea has traditionally been used as a decongestant and expectorant for colds and cough. While the science is limited on this, burdock does contain vitamin C, which is shown to boost the immune system; some research has also shown that it has antibacterial properties.
There’s limited or no research available on the pediatric uses of burdock root, and its safety hasn’t been studied in children. Because of this, you should never give your child burdock root unless under the supervision of a doctor. Never collect it from the wild. The Burdock plant resembles belladonna nightshade plants, which are highly toxic. They often grow together. If you’re taking burdock supplements, take small doses only in moderation. More research is needed to determine the safety of the supplement. Burdock root is a natural diuretic, so you shouldn’t take it if you’re dehydrated. You also shouldn’t take it if you’re also taking other diuretics or water pills, as it can increase dehydration.If you’re allergic to chrysanthemums or daisies, you may be at an increased risk of having an allergic reaction to burdock root and should avoid it.Pregnant women or women trying to become pregnant shouldn’t take burdock root or supplements. Always thoroughly research any new herbs you are thinking of taking and if using prescribed drugs have a chat with your GP first.
Burdock root can be consumed safely in moderation, and you can safely drink one cup of burdock tea a day.
To make a cup of burdock tea, place about 1 tsp. dried burdock root in a teacup, pour approximately 7 ounces of hot or boiling spring or filtered water over the herbs, and let it steep for at least 1 minute and a maximum of 20 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea. Strain the loose pieces and enjoy. To make iced burdock tea at home, add two teaspoons of dried root to cold water. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes or for as long as desired. To make a tonic tea, mix 1 tsp dried burdock root, 1 tsp dried dandelion root, 2 dried red clover flowers and Dried peppermint leaves to taste, add a mug of boiling water, steep for 30 minutes, strain and enjoy maybe with a slice of lemon and a teaspoon of honey. This tea helps to stimulate the kidney and liver functions and can possibly help to treat acne and eczema. Burdock root can also be added to broths and stews.
Buddha is recorded as saying, “It confers life and beauty, ease and strength; it dispels hunger, thirst, and wind; it cleanses the bladder; it digests food.”
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